About Ardara: History, People, Tradition & More

About Ardara

Welcome to Ardara, best village in Ireland.

Ardara (Irish: “Ard an Rátha” meaning “Height of the Fort” – pronounced “Ardra”) is a small town in County Donegal, Ireland, located along the N56 road.

Some of the main scenic points near the town are the Glengesh Pass, the Maghera Caves and Waterfall, and the views out over the Atlantic from Loughros Point.

Ardara is a vibrant and bustling town which is very popular with holidaymakers. We host many festivals and events every year, and you’ll find more information about them on our Festivals & Events page.

Discover more about the history, culture and people of Ardara by visiting the pages below.

Tweed

Read about the history of tweed in the Ardara area, and the techniques used in its manufacture.

Heritage Town

Ardara is one of five designated Heritage Towns in Donegal.

Archaeology

There are a number of archaeological monuments of note in the area dating to prehistoric times.

Genealogy

Ardara, historically home to the O’Breslin and O’Boyle clans, boasts several established Irish Clan names

Personalities

Read about some of Ardara's well-known personalities, past and present

Archive Photos

A selection of archive photos of Ardara and the surrounding regions.

Video about Donegal

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Selected Listings

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Owentucker Apartments Ardara Built in 2007 this 2 bedroom ground floor apartment is ideally located on a quiet cul de sac in the center of the buzzing town of Ardara,10 minute drive to numerous blue flag beaches this is the perfect apartment to stay along the Wild Atlantic Way. Within easy reach of Slieve League & Glenveagh National Park, We are perfect for small families, walkers, couples and those attending local weddings. Amenities 2 Double Rooms. Full Bath/Sower room. Fully fitted Kitchen with washing machine & Lounge. Fully secure external and internal doors. Private parking. Complimentary WIFI. Gallery Share this:Tweet Share this:Tweet

Owentucker Apartments Ardara

Sliabh Liag Boat Trips Established in 1995 we provide one of the must see (sea) trips when in Donegal. You can bask in the most scenic view of slaibh laig from sea level experiencing the view and enjoying the vast nature and sea life that frequent Donegals Wild Atlantic Way. We run tours to the magnificent Sliabh Liag Cliffs, the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe standing 600m (1972 feet ). We get close to the shore to appreciate this spectacular sight. Sometimes we are joined by wildlife like dolphins, whales, seals, and in May and June we often see basking sharks feeding on the plankton.There is also a wide range of bird life that can be seen nesting and hunting. Jump into the refreshing atlantic ocean and let yourself relax see our gallery below. And with sailings at :10, 12, 2, 4, 6 and sometimes 8 am/pm we will find a time to suit your schedule You can go swimming in the crystal clear water of the many coves on the tour. We can provided swimming gear and wet suits if you think the water is cold but most don’t need them. A unique experience for everyone. The tour lasts about one and a half hours (90 mins) […] Share this:Tweet

Sliabh Liag Boat Trips

Owenea River Rest, Ardara’s first ever glamping and motor home site is taking bookings for 2021 Owenea River Rest offers a unique glamping experience near the Owenea river, just outside the heritage village of Ardara, on the Wild Atlantic Way. Guests can wake up in tranquillity overlooking the beautiful views of river and mountains. Owenea River Rest features four new self-contained log cabins, four individual camper van bays, as well as a cosy barbecue hut and a two outdoor hot tubs. The cabins – Mountain View, Sunset Haven, River Rest and Moonrise Lodge – boast a comfortable outside veranda with seating and table; perfect to enjoy breakfast or lunch al fresco. Ardara has lots of activities to choose from including walking, hiking trails, watersports, golf and fishing to name just a few. Guests can ramble along the Owenea River walk (a mere 5-minute stroll from the cabins) or enjoy the natural rugged beauty of the mountains and beaches during the day. Owenea River Rest is perfect for a staycation for families, friends and couples alike. For information on availability of our cabins and pricing for summer 2021, please visit our Airbnb page. Covid-19 safety notice The use of cleaning chemicals that […] Share this:Tweet

Owenea River Rest

Fully renovated in 2019 and ideally located in the center of Ardara along Donegal’s the wild Atlantic Way. We offer the perfect place to stay while experiencing all the beautiful scenery, beaches, golf courses and fishing that Donegal has to offer. Also as we are in the center of the town all local shops,bars and restaurants are less than a 5 min walk. Rooms 2 double en suite 2 triple rooms. 1 Famly Room en suite sleeps 6. Fully fitted communal Kitchen & Lounge. Complimentary WIFI. Covid 19 The use of cleaning chemicals that are effective against Coronavirus, Surfaces, linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with local authority guidelines, Guest accommodation is disinfected between each stay to assure the safety of our customers. Gallary Share this:Tweet Share this:Tweet

Diamond House Ardara

Analytiq Chartered Certified Accountants Specialising in providing tailored tax, accounting and audit services to owner-managed business, self-assessed taxpayers and start-ups. Services provided: Accounts Audit Farm Accounts Tax Returns Book-keeping Tax Consultants Why Use Us When starting out in business, accounting can be a daunting area to get on top of. It is essential for both short and long-term decision making but many founders find themselves lost without the basic accounting skills required. Tom is a Chartered Certified Accountant (FCCA) with vast experience and a demonstrated history of working with Start-ups, particularly with Tech Start-ups. For an initial phone, email or face-to-face personal consultation check our contact information to see how we at Analytiq, Can help you – do your business better. Share this:Tweet Share this:Tweet

Analytiq Chartered Certified Accountants

Charlie’s West End Cafe Established in 1994, Charlie’s Cafe as its known by regulars, is a Family Owned and Operated Business that has been serving the people of Ardara and further afield for two generations. Donegal’s Finest Traditional Fish and Chips,their naturally smoked haddock really is superb. Fresh Donegal fish adorns their menu with superb daily specials. If you desire something smaller, their light bites are available. Serving Daily everything from breakfasts, lunches to evening meals, this cafe is must go to place for food, winning awards not just for outstanding food but also for the friendly staff and warm welcome, serving generous portions and catering for any special requests from customers. Extensive Menu Fresh Daily Specials Walk-Ins Welcome Good For Groups Good For Kids Table Service Wheelchair Access Trip Advisor Reviews Gallery Share this:Tweet Share this:Tweet

Charlie’s West End Cafe

Ardara Dry Cleaning & Launderette Ardara Laundry & Dry Cleaning is a business based in Ardara. Owned and run by Margaret Boyle for over 20 years. All Types of Curtains Dry Cleaned Ironing Service Available Commercial Rates available for Hotels, B&Bs and Holiday Homes All your Laundry catered for. Duvets, Pillows, Clothes etc. Collection and Delivery Service Occasion and Formal Wear Specialist in Wedding dresses Duration varies • Price available on request Share this:Tweet Share this:Tweet

Ardara Dry Cleaning & Launderette

Nestled 2km above the village of Ardara, The Green Gate B&B is a traditional Irish thatched cottage which was lovingly restored and recreated by French philosopher Paul Chatenoud. Share this:Tweet

The Green Gate B&B

Story of Missing Piece Missing Piece is a personalised wooden craft business, based in the Old Parish Hall, Ardara. It is owned by Leonard Breslin who himself is a native of the town. Missing Piece make a range of personalised wooden crafts including their Family Tree Puzzle Boards, Oak cutting boards, oak coasters, and much more. You can find their products on their website missingpiece.ie, in shops in Ardara town, and in some of Donegal’s most famous attractions. Leonard’s love of wood began over 35 years ago when starting out as an apprentice carpenter. Over time he moved into bespoke furniture making, and now Missing Piece is the latest evolution of Leonard’s woodcraft. Cathal, Leonard’s son also works in Missing Piece, helping to craft all the product with utmost care and attention. See below a video of the Missing Piece story: What We Do Personalised wooden crafts Family Tree Puzzle Boards Oak collection of cutting boards, coasters, phone docks, chalk boards and more. Galleries Videos Photos Share this:Tweet Share this:Tweet

Missing Piece – Irish Personalised Crafts

The Barber Club Ardara After moving from Glenties in 2017 Fiona has established herself as the go to place for mens hair grooming. The town has welcomed her with open arms and with the stream of patrons waiting to get their hair cut at the The Barber Club it shows the quality and care of attention that you recieve when you go there. The Barber Club operates on a walk in bases allowing you the convenience of not rushing to make appointments. With 5 out of 5, one review said, “Lovely lady,lovely studio, especially love the waiting room next door!!!! Just had my hair cur for the third time with Fiona,a record for me!!! As the man says “I’ll be back”!!” Gallery Share this:Tweet Share this:Tweet

The Barber Club

Bonners of Ardara stock a wide range of Gifts, Crafts, Jewellery, Country Clothing and our own Aran Knits Share this:Tweet

Bonners of Ardara

A modern twist on the traditional tweed & knitwear shop: Superb knitwear, tweeds, arts & crafts. Share this:Tweet

Campbells of Ardara

Knitwear accessories, hats, caps, scarves, ponchos and gloves. Range of tweed fabrics, jackets, caps, and ties Share this:Tweet

John Molloy Woollen Mills

A ‘Boutique Hotel’ set in it’s own grounds, overlooking the nearby coastal resort of Narin and Portnoo. Share this:Tweet

Lake House Hotel

A modern B & B with wonderful views, set along the Wild Atlantic Way. Share this:Tweet

Auntie B’s Bed and Breakfast

Famous for fish & chips, burgers and wide range of delicious eats. Phone & Collect: 087 2921676 Share this:Tweet

Whatcha Mc Collum’s Take Away

Located in the centre of town

Best selection of coffees & teas, homemade desserts, lite bites and larger dishes for customers to try. Share this:Tweet

Sheila’s Coffee and Cream

Run by the Mc Hugh family for seven generations, Nancy’s is a cosy, traditional Irish pub. Laden down with antiques and toby jugs, and full of delightful little rooms, it is the perfect spot to enjoy some delicious food, great guinness and warm hospitality. The menu is delicious; it’s a “no fuss” approach to serving some of the locality’s tastiest and freshest food available. Focusing on seafood including oysters, mussels and smoked salmon, though the menu also caters for other tastes. Also known as a drop in for world renowned Musicians who stop in for a drink, food and maybe a few tunes. Food is served 12.30 – 8.30 daily. The coastline of Ardara and its hinterland has long since supplied the raw ingredients for a world-class cuisine – icy northern waters yielding fresh fish and shellfish, lush green grass for prime cattle rearing, and traditional skills such as butchering, bread making, and our ancient preservation methods of salting smoking & curing. A widespread gourmet food movement has got under way in the last few years and Nancys earned international acclaim and coveted awards, revealing the culinary potential and generating enthusiasm. The result is a pervasive emphasis on quality local ingredients […] Share this:Tweet

Nancy’s Bar and Restaurant

Musicians from all over the world descend on the Corner House and some of the finest music can be heard. Share this:Tweet

The Corner House

An energetic pub in the lovely scenic town of Ardara. There is music weekly and we have great bar staff! Share this:Tweet

The Beehive Bar

TAXI, BUS & COACH HIRE Donegal Tours Mobile: 087 6488628 Wheelchair accessible. Tours, airports, golf trips…

Mc Hugh Travel

Auctioneer & Estate Agent. Residential & Commercial Property Sales, Site/Farm, Land Sales, Auctions. Share this:Tweet

McCahill & McNelis

Residential Property Sales Commercial Property Sales Site/Farm & Development Land Sales Properties Auctions

Stephen Bennett Artist Studio Gallery “……..I was inspired by the people of Donegal and enthralled by their way of life – hardworking by day in the fields or the bog, but always ready to enjoy themselves at night. The sing-songs, the fiddle music, the storytelling, the dancing and the natural humour of the people made a powerful and lasting impression on me. I felt at home here and the urge to come back to live and paint in Donegal was born in these early days.” Commercial Artist in London Stephen Bennett was born in London, his father having emigrated from Ardara, Co. Donegal. He graduated with an Art diploma from Barking College of Art and Design in 1973. Stephen then began a very successful career as a commercial artist, working for leading London advertising agencies for the next 18 years. He worked as a visualiser/illustrator on the accounts of companies such as British Airways, Cadbury’s, B.P. etc. and was part of award-winning creative teams while working for Saatchi & Saatchi and other top agencies. Working as a fine art painter in Donegal Stephen left advertising in 1992 to follow his lifelong ambition of living and working as a painter in […] Share this:Tweet